Hawaii Memory Care Facilities

Presently, over 29,000 people with Alzheimer's reside in Hawaii according to Alzheimer's Association. With over 550 facilities designed specifically to treat and offer unique care to individuals with Alzheimer's and other memory issues such as dementia, the state offers hope to affected persons and their families.

The facilities empower residents to remain engaged and active while residing in a safe and supervised setting. Hawaii's memory care facilities also offer services to improve the lives of affected people, including grooming, bathing, and laundry.

The main goal of these facilities is to offer care by ensuring residents remain as active and as healthy as possible. If you're contemplating such facilities for a loved one, you'll find that memory care facilities in Hawaii are affordable. This guide offers insight into memory care in the state, highlighting various aspects, including the cost and the associated regulations.

Memory Care Costs in Hawaii

The average monthly cost of memory care in Hawaii is approximately $6,200. However, costs can vary significantly depending on the city and the specific care needs of the individual. Below is a table of the memory care costs in the 20 largest cities in Hawaii.

Memory care costs in Hawaii generally range from $5,300 to $7,000 per month, with Honolulu being the most expensive. Smaller cities like Hilo and Kahului tend to have lower costs, but there is still a noticeable variation across the state. On average, residents can expect to pay around $6,200 per month for memory care services.

Amenities

Hawaii’s memory care facilities offer specialized amenities to meet the unique needs of their Alzheimer's patients. They offer 24-hour care and a higher security level to protect residents who tend to wander. Since Alzheimer's patients need special care, the staff members and caregivers in these communities undergo extensive training to ensure appropriate and quality care to senior residents.

These communities serve healthy meals to residents and provide a special diet upon request. Other programs provided in these communities include mental games, medication assistance, and transportation to doctor appointments.

Security is of utmost importance in Hawaii's dementia care homes, which keep residents safe through color-coded sections, security pendants, and automatic doors. While these amenities are standard in most facilities, you'll need to research to identify the unique amenities and services offered by various providers before signing an agreement.

The type of facility you'll choose will depend largely on a patient's overall health and the needed care level. Keep in mind that facilities differ because patients are unique in their manifestation of Alzheimer's and some have additional medical issues that require consideration.

Here's a more detailed look at various amenities you may be able to find in Hawaii's memory care communities:

Hawaii offers a range of memory care facilities, specifically designed to meet the needs of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other cognitive impairments. These facilities provide a range of specialized amenities and services to ensure the well-being, comfort, and dignity of residents. Given the unique cultural, environmental, and lifestyle factors of Hawaii, memory care amenities in the state are tailored to support both the physical and emotional needs of seniors.

1. Culturally-Inclusive Care

In Hawaii, there is a strong emphasis on integrating local traditions and values into memory care. The cultural richness of the Hawaiian community is reflected in many facilities, with staff trained to respect and incorporate cultural practices. This includes incorporating Hawaiian language, music, food, and healing traditions into daily activities, creating a sense of comfort and familiarity for residents with ties to the islands. For example, hula dancing or Hawaiian music might be used as therapeutic activities, which have been shown to improve mood and cognition in dementia patients.

2. Scenic and Therapeutic Environments

One of the standout features of memory care in Hawaii is the picturesque setting. Many memory care facilities are located in close proximity to Hawaii’s natural beauty, such as stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and tranquil gardens. The serene environment offers therapeutic benefits, helping to reduce agitation and anxiety. Outdoor spaces with ocean views, walking paths through tropical gardens, and even access to beach activities can promote relaxation and physical activity. These settings help maintain a connection to the outside world, which is often important for those with memory loss.

3. Specialized Therapeutic Programs

Memory care facilities in Hawaii often offer innovative and holistic programs to support cognitive function, emotional well-being, and physical health. These programs include:

• Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST): Many facilities use CST, which involves structured activities designed to improve memory and cognitive function.
• Music and Art Therapy: Music is a powerful tool in memory care, and Hawaii’s cultural heritage makes music therapy especially popular. Art activities, including crafts and painting, provide both cognitive and emotional benefits.
• Pet Therapy: Animal-assisted therapy is common in memory care facilities, where residents interact with trained therapy animals. This can help reduce stress and stimulate positive emotions.
• Reminiscence Therapy: Some facilities focus on reminiscence therapy, which involves discussing past memories to help individuals feel connected to their history and identity. This can be enhanced with the use of photographs, personal items, and meaningful discussions.

4. Personalized Care Plans

Memory care facilities in Hawaii emphasize personalized care. Residents are assessed individually, and care plans are tailored to meet their specific needs, preferences, and abilities. This includes:

• 24/7 Support: Highly trained staff provide round-the-clock care, helping with daily living activities such as dressing, bathing, and eating, while also offering medication management.
• Behavioral and Emotional Support: Facilities are equipped to manage the behavioral and emotional challenges associated with dementia, such as aggression or withdrawal. Skilled staff provide interventions to de-escalate challenging situations and promote engagement.
• Family Involvement: Family members are encouraged to participate in the care process, with many facilities offering support groups, counseling, and educational resources to help families navigate the challenges of dementia care.

5. Safe, Secure Environment

Memory care facilities in Hawaii are designed with security and safety in mind. Residents often wander or become confused, so many facilities have secured entrances and exits, ensuring they are safe while allowing for freedom of movement within the building or landscaped gardens. These facilities also incorporate assistive technologies, such as tracking devices or monitoring systems, to ensure that residents are always accounted for.

6. Nutritious Island-Inspired Cuisine

Hawaiian memory care facilities often provide meals that reflect the diverse and vibrant food culture of the islands. Nutritious meals are prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, incorporating tropical fruits, fish, and other island specialties. The emphasis is not only on flavor but also on the nutritional needs of residents, with special diets available for those with conditions like diabetes or food allergies. Additionally, mealtimes are often social events, helping to foster a sense of community among residents.

7. Physical Fitness and Wellness Programs

Physical activity is an important part of memory care in Hawaii. Many facilities offer exercise programs that include gentle yoga, tai chi, and water aerobics, all of which are particularly suited for seniors with memory challenges. The warm climate allows for outdoor activities, such as walking in nature or participating in group activities on the beach, which can be calming and physically beneficial. In addition, wellness programs often focus on mental stimulation, stress management, and improving sleep, all crucial aspects of supporting memory health.

8. Transportation and Socialization

Transportation services are an essential amenity for many memory care facilities, particularly in the more remote or rural areas of Hawaii. Residents may enjoy excursions to local attractions, beaches, or community events. These trips help maintain social connections and keep residents engaged with the wider community. Facilities often offer regular social and recreational activities, including movie nights, craft sessions, and group outings, ensuring that residents continue to enjoy an active, fulfilling lifestyle.

Memory Care vs Dementia Care in Hawaii

When considering care options for individuals with cognitive impairments, it’s important to understand the distinctions between memory care and dementia care. While both terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to different levels of care and specialized services that address specific needs. In Hawaii, as in many other regions, the terms "memory care" and "dementia care" are essential in understanding the options available to families seeking professional help for their loved ones.

Memory Care in Hawaii

Memory care is a specialized form of long-term care designed to support individuals with memory loss, such as those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, other types of dementia, or age-related cognitive decline. In Hawaii, memory care is typically provided in dedicated facilities that focus on creating a safe and supportive environment for residents. These facilities are often housed within assisted living communities but are equipped with specialized programs, layouts, and staff trained to cater to the specific needs of residents experiencing memory loss.

Key features of memory care in Hawaii include:

• 24-hour supervision to ensure safety and well-being.
• Personalized care plans to address individual health needs, medication management, and emotional support.
• Structured environments with daily routines designed to provide stability and reduce confusion.
• Therapeutic activities such as memory exercises, music therapy, and social events to enhance cognitive function and promote social engagement.
• Security measures, such as secured entrances and exits, to prevent wandering, a common issue among those with memory disorders.

Memory care facilities in Hawaii are designed to offer a secure, homelike environment with a focus on enhancing the quality of life for residents. These communities typically offer a mix of private and shared rooms, and many provide additional services such as housekeeping, transportation, and meals.

Dementia Care in Hawaii

Dementia care, while similar to memory care, is a broader term that refers specifically to the management and treatment of people with dementia. Dementia itself is an umbrella term for various cognitive conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia, all of which cause cognitive decline and impairments in memory, communication, and decision-making. Dementia care involves more medical attention and specialized services to manage the symptoms of dementia, which can include memory loss, behavioral changes, and a decline in the ability to perform everyday tasks.

In Hawaii, dementia care is often provided in settings specifically designed to manage the complex needs of individuals with different forms of dementia, offering:

• Specialized medical care: Dementia care units often have healthcare professionals on-site, including nurses and doctors who can address medical needs related to dementia progression.
• Behavioral management programs: These programs focus on controlling challenging behaviors such as aggression, agitation, and mood swings, which are common in dementia patients.
• Advanced care techniques: Facilities may offer more advanced therapies, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, to help residents maintain function and independence.
• Memory-enhancing treatments: Some dementia care facilities provide innovative memory-enhancement programs, such as reminiscence therapy or cognitive stimulation therapy, designed to improve cognitive functioning and delay further deterioration.

Dementia care in Hawaii can be provided in various settings, including specialized dementia care units in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or even at-home care options. The goal is to provide comprehensive care that addresses both the cognitive and emotional needs of individuals suffering from dementia.

Key Differences Between Memory Care and Dementia Care

Although the two types of care are often seen as synonymous, there are a few key differences that can help families make the right choice for their loved ones:

• Level of Medical Care: Dementia care tends to offer a higher level of medical support, including care for individuals with more advanced stages of dementia who may require complex medical interventions. Memory care, on the other hand, is more focused on providing a structured, safe environment with cognitive support and daily care routines.

• Targeted Conditions: Memory care is often more general, catering to a wide range of memory loss issues, whereas dementia care is specifically focused on individuals diagnosed with dementia-related conditions, often with a medical focus on managing the progression of the disease.

• Facility Design: Memory care facilities may emphasize a supportive, less clinical atmosphere that feels more like a home. Dementia care facilities may have stricter medical protocols and security features due to the advanced nature of the disease and the need for specialized interventions.

Choosing the Right Care Option in Hawaii

When choosing between memory care and dementia care in Hawaii, families should consider several factors:

• The stage of the condition: If a loved one has just begun experiencing mild memory loss or early-stage dementia, memory care might be sufficient. For individuals in more advanced stages, dementia care may be necessary to provide medical interventions.
• Personalized needs: Consider whether the person needs specialized medical treatments or just a secure, nurturing environment to help with daily living.
• Cost and availability: The cost of care can vary significantly in Hawaii, with memory care facilities often being slightly more affordable than dementia care options due to the higher medical support needed in dementia care. Availability of spaces in specialized facilities can also influence the decision-making process.

Secure Units

Patients with memory disorders, typically exhibit exit-seeking behaviors, which are a big threat to them. Therefore, numerous facilities provide secure units 24/7. Generally, the units are smaller, and access only comes from staff and authorized visitors. The security systems you can expect include:

Elevator Alarms

For those whose needs don't warrant a safe unit, alternative security measures might be necessary. Some facilities come equipped with systems meant to inform staff members if a patient is near an elevator or exit.

Personal Alarms

Facilities often place the devices on beds and wheelchairs of residents who can no longer comprehend their safety deficits. For instance, if a resident is a fall risk due to poor balance, the alarm will redirect a patient back into their seat while alerting personnel to assist.

Security measures in memory care facilities in Hawaii

Memory care facilities in Hawaii, like in many other states, provide specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and other cognitive impairments. Given the vulnerability of residents in these settings, ensuring their safety and well-being is a priority. These facilities implement a variety of security measures to prevent accidents, wandering, and to protect residents from harm. Below are some of the most common and effective security measures in place:

1. Controlled Entry and Exit Points

One of the most critical security features in memory care facilities is controlling access to the building. Facilities often have secure entry and exit points to prevent residents from wandering outside. This includes:

• Locked doors: Doors leading outside or to restricted areas are typically locked and can only be accessed with special codes or keycards.
• Alarms: Some facilities use alarm systems that alert staff when a door is opened unexpectedly, especially if it is a door that leads to the outside. This helps to prevent residents from wandering off unnoticed.
• Code systems: In some memory care units, entry into the facility requires a special code, ensuring that only authorized individuals can enter.

2. Wandering Prevention

Wandering is a common behavior among individuals with dementia and Alzheimer's disease, and preventing this can be a major concern in memory care facilities. Several measures are taken to reduce the risk of wandering:

• Fencing and enclosed outdoor areas: Many memory care facilities have secure, enclosed outdoor areas where residents can safely walk and enjoy fresh air without the risk of wandering off.
• Tracking devices: Some facilities use wearable tracking devices that can monitor residents' movements. These devices alert staff if a resident goes outside the designated safe zones.
• Routine monitoring: Staff are trained to closely monitor residents' activities throughout the day, especially those who have a higher tendency to wander.

3. Surveillance Systems

To ensure the safety and security of residents, memory care facilities in Hawaii often utilize advanced surveillance technology:

• CCTV cameras: Closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras are installed in common areas and hallways, allowing staff to monitor residents and staff behavior. Cameras are placed in strategic locations to ensure that all areas are covered while maintaining the privacy of residents.
• Remote monitoring: Some facilities offer remote surveillance systems where families can check in on their loved ones via secure online platforms. This provides peace of mind to families, knowing that their loved ones are being closely watched.

4. Trained and Staffed Personnel

The presence of well-trained staff is crucial in maintaining a secure and safe environment in memory care facilities. Staff members are specially trained to handle situations that may arise with dementia patients, including:

• De-escalation techniques: Staff are trained to handle residents who may become agitated or confused, preventing situations from escalating into potential safety hazards.
• Caregiver-to-resident ratio: Memory care facilities typically ensure that there is an adequate ratio of caregivers to residents. This helps ensure that all residents receive the attention they need and that any safety concerns are addressed promptly.

5. Emergency Protocols and Medical Preparedness

In case of an emergency, such as a medical crisis, fire, or natural disaster, memory care facilities in Hawaii implement strict protocols:

• Emergency evacuation plans: All facilities have comprehensive evacuation plans in place, with regular drills to ensure staff are prepared for emergencies.
• First-aid and medical supplies: Memory care facilities are equipped with first-aid kits and emergency medical supplies. Staff are trained in basic first aid, CPR, and handling medical emergencies that may arise.
• Disaster preparedness: Given Hawaii’s susceptibility to natural disasters, such as hurricanes and earthquakes, memory care facilities implement disaster preparedness plans, ensuring that residents’ needs are met in the event of an evacuation or disruption of services.

6. Health and Medication Monitoring

To ensure the health and safety of residents, memory care facilities monitor residents' health and medication schedules rigorously:

• Medication management: Memory care facilities are equipped to handle specialized medication regimens, ensuring that residents receive the correct medication at the appropriate times.
• Health screenings: Regular health assessments are conducted to monitor the physical and mental well-being of residents. This includes monitoring for signs of malnutrition, dehydration, or any other health issues that could compromise safety.

7. Visitor Protocols

Memory care facilities often have strict visitor protocols to ensure the safety of residents:

• Visitor check-in systems: All visitors are typically required to sign in upon arrival, with some facilities requiring identification to ensure that only authorized individuals are allowed to visit.
• Visiting hours: In some facilities, there are specific visiting hours to ensure that the environment remains calm and that the safety of the residents is not compromised by unfamiliar visitors.
• Monitoring of interactions: Staff may also monitor interactions between residents and visitors to ensure that the residents are comfortable and safe.

8. Design Features and Environmental Safety

The physical design of memory care facilities plays an essential role in enhancing security:

• Clear signage: Easy-to-read signs and visual cues help residents navigate their environment safely, reducing confusion and disorientation.
• Non-slip flooring: To prevent falls, memory care facilities use non-slip flooring materials, particularly in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
• Lighting: Proper lighting is installed throughout the facility to help prevent accidents and ensure that staff can monitor residents effectively.

Memory Care Regulations

In terms of staffing, licensed personnel must be available 7 days a week and should undertake orientation training and six hours of in-service annual training.

In Hawaii, residents have the right to understand their treatment and diagnosis. Residents also have a right to privacy. Treatment refusal is permissible, and you should inform a patient regarding the outcomes of the decision. Patients also have the privilege of appointing a representative to make their decisions if they lack the cognitive capacity to do so.

Regulations surrounding medical records dictate that the release can only occur with a patient's consent or a legal representative. Moreover, records must be available to authorized personnel to ensure the facility is running appropriately. 

Factors to Consider When Looking for a Memory Care Facility in Hawaii

You'll need to invest time and effort when selecting a facility for a loved one. You'll also have to research numerous facilities before you make a decision to ensure you find the ideal facility that will meet your loved one's needs. Some of the factors to consider include:

Expertise on Memory Disease

Some dementia care facilities have specialized units for memory care while others are entirely dedicated to caring for those with dementia or Alzheimer's. When researching a facility, you'll want to get an idea of how knowledgeable the personnel is regarding the unique care and needs of those with memory loss and associated conditions. It's equally important to establish whether the facility can handle the accompanying challenges.

Safety

When scouting for the appropriate facility, safety is of utmost importance. Therefore, the first aspect you'll need to focus on is the environment. The community should have a home-like feeling, comprising aspects such as comfortable seating.

Watch for safety aspects that will keep your loved one safe from the dangers that accompany dementia. Make sure the community has a pendant system or code-protected doors that inform staff when residents are without supervision.

You should also determine the precautions that are in place in case a resident can't recall how to use the system. The facility should be secure 24/7 with numerous back-up protections to prevent wandering, which could jeopardize residents' safety.

While security is vital in maintaining the safety of residents, they should have a degree of independence. Great facilities comprise safe access outdoors, permitting residents to enjoy the outdoors without the possibility of getting lost or endangering their lives.

Staff Qualifications

Memory care residents need special care, so ensure the staff at the prospective facility is qualified with special training to work with patients with memory disorders. You'll also need to establish the ratio of staff to residents. Six residents to one member of staff typically imply good care.

The Programs /Activities

When looking for a dementia care facility, choose one that provides a wide range of special programs that will keep your loved one engaged and entertained. The reason behind this is that patients with memory disorders require continuous stimulation. Therefore, regular engagement in therapeutic activities will enhance the life quality of residents with memory loss.

Moreover, they'll prevent further cognitive decline in patients. Since memory diseases progress differently across patients, each must have a schedule tailored to his or her unique needs and wants.

On the same note, caregivers also need support groups and programs, so the entire family can participate and obtain help if necessary.

Additional Assistance / Treatment

Individuals with memory disorders might experience other ailments related to aging. Consequently, you should establish whether the prospective facility could treat other conditions. If other medical concerns exist, check whether the facility can treat those ailments. You should also ensure that your loved one would be in a position to meet with doctors frequently. 

Knowledgeable Staffing

The staff of a memory care facility makes all the difference in the care your loved one will receive upon admission. You'll need to inquire about the training, personnel receive beyond state or federally required education.

Check if they undertake continuous education associated with memory disorders and attend related conferences and training to remain knowledgeable and updated on the latest practices. You'll also want to establish the facility's philosophy and watch for their values. This will reveal whether they place residents' needs at the center of their plan.

Don't forget to inquire about family participation in the program. A great program will integrate time for families and means of communicating in case family members reside far away.

When should someone with dementia go to memory care in Hawaii?

Deciding when someone with dementia should transition to memory care in Hawaii is a deeply personal decision that involves assessing the individual's needs, the progression of their condition, and the resources available. The process can be challenging for families, as it often marks a significant shift in care responsibilities. Here are several key factors to consider when determining the right time for this transition:

1. Safety Concerns

As dementia progresses, individuals often experience cognitive decline that affects their ability to manage daily tasks. Safety becomes a major concern when they may no longer be able to safely perform tasks such as cooking, bathing, or driving. If an individual is at risk of wandering or experiencing falls, or if they have become more prone to dangerous behaviors, memory care facilities in Hawaii can provide 24/7 supervision and ensure the safety of the person.

2. Declining Ability to Communicate or Recognize Loved Ones

Dementia can severely impact a person’s ability to communicate and recognize familiar faces. When a person with dementia is no longer able to engage in meaningful conversations, recognize family members, or understand their surroundings, it can become overwhelming for family members to provide the emotional and physical support required. Memory care facilities are equipped with staff trained in communication techniques for individuals with advanced dementia.

3. Increased Care Needs

As dementia advances, the level of care required typically increases. Family members may initially be able to provide care at home, but over time, the demands become greater than they can manage. When personal care needs, such as assistance with feeding, dressing, toileting, and mobility, become too overwhelming, it may be time to consider a memory care facility. These facilities offer specialized care designed to meet the evolving needs of individuals with dementia.

4. Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms

Dementia often comes with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as agitation, aggression, depression, and anxiety. In some cases, individuals may become violent, refuse medications, or struggle to manage emotions, leading to stress and strain on caregivers. Memory care homes in Hawaii have trained professionals who understand how to manage these behaviors in a way that is safe for both the person with dementia and their caregivers.

5. Family Caregiver Burnout

Caring for someone with dementia can be physically and emotionally exhausting, and many caregivers may experience burnout. The stress, exhaustion, and emotional toll on family caregivers can compromise their ability to provide adequate care. When caregivers are unable to provide the level of care needed or when they need to focus on their own health and well-being, it may be necessary to transition the person to a memory care facility.

6. The Need for Specialized Dementia Care

Hawaii has a unique healthcare system, and not all home care providers are equipped to handle the complexities of dementia care. Memory care facilities are specifically designed to address the unique needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. If the individual’s condition requires expertise in managing dementia-specific issues, such as medication management, cognitive stimulation, and therapy, memory care is often the best solution.

7. Social Engagement and Stimulation

Memory care facilities provide structured activities that can help stimulate the minds of individuals with dementia and offer socialization opportunities. As individuals with dementia may become increasingly isolated at home, transitioning to a memory care facility can help provide a stimulating and supportive environment that encourages participation in activities that promote cognitive health and well-being.

8. Legal and Financial Considerations

In Hawaii, the decision to transition someone to memory care may also be influenced by financial and legal factors. Long-term care options can be expensive, and memory care facilities often have costs that are higher than regular nursing homes or assisted living facilities. Families should consider the financial implications, including insurance options, Medicaid eligibility, and long-term care plans. It is important to have open discussions about finances, insurance coverage, and the potential for assistance with the costs of care.

Questions to Ask Hawaiian Memory Care Homes During a Tour

Asking the right questions will ensure you choose a facility that offers a supportive setting for a loved one's continued health. Some of the questions you should ask include:

What Approach Do You Take to Staff Training?

You need to understand the care model and kind of training the staff undertakes. This will help you understand the number of hours the staff undergo in training and whether the community simply meets the minimum regulatory prerequisites.

You want a dementia care community that adheres to a wider training scope. The facility should also value continuous training among the personnel. This question will also disclose the number of caregivers who are supposed to be on duty throughout the night and day.

Which Method Will You Use to Keep Me Updated?

The community's staff should inform you how they'll communicate regarding your loved one's wellbeing. For instance, you need to find out whether you have an option to receive communication through a phone call or a text message. Make sure you inquire about the facility's policies regarding treatment and how they'll notify you in case an emergency arises.

Do You Offer a Customized Care Plan?

A reputable facility will offer services customized to the residents' unique abilities and needs. To establish the care level your loved one needs, you'll have to provide information including the extent of mobility, any health conditions, and wandering tendencies.

You'll also need to understand the facility's philosophy regarding activities and programs. Keep in mind that the depth of activity programming can differ considerably depending on the customization.

Memory Care versus Assisted Living

These are the fastest-growing kinds of senior care and while an overlap exists, they aren't synonymous. These facilities aren't interchangeable. However, numerous assisted living communities in Hawaii provide memory care as part of their services. Therefore, you must understand the differences to choose a suitable facility for a loved one.

Assisted Living Provides Occasional Assistance

Some seniors might be physically active but still require help with daily living activities such as cooking meals, and sustaining personal hygiene, which could overwhelm a senior over time. This is where assisted living applies. Residents at such facilities obtain assistance in accomplishing daily tasks but are still comparatively independent.

Memory Care Centers for Seniors' Safety

While this type of care resembles assisted living, it's optimized to suit seniors with progressive mental disorders such as dementia and related mental issues. Patients at these facilities require special needs and treatment because of memory loss.

Therefore, staffing at a chosen facility should have dedicated training to help residents enjoy quality life despite cognitive impairments. You'll discover that these communities emphasize the layout and security to prevent residents from endangering their lives.

Choosing between Assisted Living and Memory Care

If you're contemplating between these two options, you might be wondering which suits your loved one best. Adults who are still comparatively independent but still require assistance with daily tasks need assisted living. This option offers residents with the necessary assistance to help them live life to the fullest while providing a calendar of activities.

On the other hand, those struggling with cognitive impairment will be safer in facilities designed purposely to address their needs.

When is your loved one ready for memory care in Hawaii?

Some family members worry that age-related memory changes are indications of dementia. Forgetting names or words occasionally or making financial errors is normal. However, you'll understand that things are more serious when memory loss affects daily life and your loved one can't accomplish familiar tasks. Some of the indications that it might be time for memory care include:

Neglected Personal Care

When you spot neglected personal hygiene such as wrinkled clothing, unkempt hair, and body odor, it's time to consider memory care for your loved one. The advantage of memory care facilities is that they incorporate personal care and help with daily activities that keep residents on track.

Isolation and Loneliness

It's easy for those with dementia to withdraw into isolation, which could heighten the possibility of depression. Memory care communities in Hawaii offer engaging activities to keep residents engaged while easing some of the anxiety and agitation that come with cognitive disorders.

Unexplained Physical Changes

Weight and posture changes along with mobility issues indicate that your loved one requires further assistance because your loved one isn't eating. Conversely, slow movements might reveal confusion or disorientation. A memory care facility will give you peace of mind knowing that your loved one is in a monitored environment and receiving the necessary care.

Bottom Line

Once a loved one obtains a diagnosis of a memory disorder, it can be hard to get over the emotions of having to look for a memory care facility in Hawaii. However, you'll be at peace knowing that your loved one will enjoy a dignified life in a secure environment.